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Spodee for Summer Sipping

by Lauren Salkeld

on 05/15/12 at 04:45 PM

Steven Grasse is the man behind Hendrick's Gin, Sailor Jerry Rum, and the historically minded Art in the Age Spirits Root, Snap, and Rhuby. His latest creation is Spodee, an unexpected blend of fortified wine and high-proof white whiskey (commonly called moonshine). As with Root, Snap, and Rhuby, Spodee looks to the past and is based on the Depression-era practice of combining country wine with strong homemade liquor plus whatever else happens to be on hand, such as fruit and spices.

Some might be turned off by the notion of a drink that combines wine and liquor, but Spodee's cute old-fashioned-looking milk bottle packaging (perfect for picnics) will hopefully overcome any hesitations. The beverage itself has a beautiful deep purple hue and just a little fizz. Flavor wise it's reminiscent of port, but herbier and spicier, and with a hint of caramel. Spodee is sippable on its own, but the creators also recommends adding Coke for a Spodee and Sody, which is not unlike a Rum and Coke but more nuanced and satisfying.

For more on Spodee, including a video detailing its Depression-era roots, go to Spodeewine.com. Bottles are on shelves in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and can be ordered online ($9/500mL).

Spodee is delicious. I was in PA and a friend had some. Was great on the rocks and with coke. Amazing to consume a wine this way.

ldivas 09:30:34 AM on 05/16/12

Ummm....First, this "beverage" doesn't appeal (to me) at all. I have tasted moonshine and there is a reason it's called "white lightening". In my opinion, the only reason to add liquor (especially this kind) to wine is to get whacked faster! I don't think that the public needs to revisit Depression era "hootch" to appreciate that period of American history.